The ambiance is A+. Genuine cafe vibe, with plenty of seating and the warm glow from outside sun streaming in through the high windows. Their selection of food and drinks is impressive, although I'd say their food is a solid 4 stars. I liked their seasonal Maple Chai Latte (although it's on the sweeter side), but I'd come back for the smoothies especially - they're super good. read more

Super cute coffee shop with tons of seating and light- it's beautiful! The people are really nice, and they have a blonde roast! read more

The Local - Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

My go to order is a Taro latte and the breakfast sandwich with turkey and on an English muffin. Delicious!

Another great lunch at The Local cafe. Chicken salad sandwich on croissant and a glass of nice Chardonnay. I love the relaxing, unique ambience with soft music. A great service by a local family that owns the cafe. read more

The Local - Chicken salad sandwich and a glass chardonnay. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

I love this place! It's got a nice atmosphere, great coffee, and really good food (the tuna salad has sort of a Greek/Mediterranean twist and it's amazing)! I definitely recommend stopping by! read more

My favorite place in Alameda. Good food with really great service. Highly recommend it. read more

The Local - Love this place. Good service and great food. Highly recommended. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

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Great coffee, great food, exceptional staff. Great place to grab a coffee, lunch and spend some time. Great location. Don't miss it. Their sandwiches are Amazing. Highly recommend the tuna melt sandwich. read more

The Local - Vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

Blue Danube gone but The Local came through! Had to run errands and make a quick stop for a cup of pour over coffee. No, its not the same as drip coffee sitting in a big tin jar--ish. If you think its all the same you dont know nada about café. I am glad they have different roasts of coffee. Its been added to my list of where I can get quality pour over coffee in Alameda for sure! I'd make trips to Oakland just for that (dont judge me)! I was so happy to learn they have different roasts! They had Mexican/Ehiopian & a Golden Gate roasts. And I will come back to try them all! I usually get Ethiopian roasts but I wanted to try the Mexican roast here. I also got the hot breakfast sandwich which comes on foccacia bread and I loved it. It was not messy and it did the job. I am happy I had the option to change the meat to turkey because I couldnt eat pork (Capicola?) which comes originally with this sandwich. I will miss the smoothies they made before when it was Blue Danube like "The Hulk" which was a spinach, fresh OJ, mango, banana smoothie. But ai think they kept some items from the previous menu. I hope nothing but the best for this coffee shop. I would only suggest to have fans or get an air conditioning system in there because it was stuffy and hot in there this morning around 10am. But I'm sure with time they'll fix that. It also looks like they are keeping the WIFI system for people who want to do work and chill there. So I'm all happy for that too. The Local was good to me my first time and I hope it doesnt change with time. read more

The Local - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

As other reviewers have noted, The Local has replaced Blue Danube. I personally like the change. I was a fan of Blue Danube years ago, but when ownership changed and the food/drink quality started going down, I started to avoid this place. The fact that they claimed to close at 8 but would start mopping around 7 with ammonia didn't help, either. Their pourovers are okay and the portion is generous--I love coffee but haven't been able to finish any here yet. They also have Semifreddi's here, with some of my favorite pastries. The Local has a similar look to Blue Danube, but is much cleaner and brighter. There are plenty of outlets and surge protectors, wi-fi is pretty fast and I've been able to work here with no problems. The thing that gives this cafe an extra star in my book is the customer service. The owner is super friendly and helpful, as are the baristas, so it's a nice change from Blue Danube. A recent exchange with the owner, which is still stands out: Me: I'll have a morning bun please. Him: Great--that's one of my favorites. Are you by chance trying to be healthy? Me: [thinking "define TRYING"]: Ye-...no Him: Okay, what I really like is warming this for a few minutes, then putting a pat of butter on it. Would you like that? Me: YES PLEASE. I will never eat a morning bun again without warming it and adding butter. read more

Blue Danube no more, it's just "The Local". space looks the same, just different personel. offerings: coffee, tea, sammies, salads, pastries, nothing unusual except a preference for "locally" sourced products. (heard that before, somewheres. hmmm). brew: lg. drip (3.75) mr. expresso. dark roast -not so impressed as i drink more of this premium version. drips: -just looking for a snack or something different as i've just eaten. nothing caught my fancy so it's 3.5 stars. read more

We were walking to Peet's when I saw this little coffee shop. So we popped in and it was a tremendous idea! It has a very low-key, relaxing vibe, the staff is very pleasant, and the drink are awesome! I got a London Fog and my fiance got the Magic Cup of Health. Although. the Magic Cup of Health took a while to make, it was worth the wait! She started feeling better even after one sip! read more

The Local's space is warm and welcoming. It has a good amount of seating and would look like a cozy spot to catch up with a friend or get some work done. I really enjoy the overall interior aesthetic and design. They have a menu that ranges from coffee/tea to food and even alcohol! During my visit I ordered one of their signaure drinks and one of my favorite tea based drinks, the London Fog! It was really easy to drink and felt like a good drink to make your insides feel like they're getting a warm hug! Unfortunately my visit didn't qualify for as a "four star experience" as it took some time for the baristas to notice I was waiting in line. I was the only person and I'm not sure if they were undergoing a training session (it was a weekday, in the early evening). I wasn't too mad, but it was a little bit frustrating. read more

We got the mozzarella tomato sandwich and smoked salmon everything bagel- both delicious! We also ordered two cappuccinos- they had way too much milk/ foam for cappuccino - definitely a latte, but the coffee flavor was still good and we enjoyed them! read more

This place has been around for a while and changed hands a couple of times. It's current reputation has been built up based on the hard work of previous owners, not the current ones. The current owners acquired it less than a year ago or so. Each time I've been there they were rude not to mention always short staffed. Unfortunately, I won't be coming back there again. I hope these new folks won't ruin what used to be a local favorite for many. Miss the old owner Otto! read more

Blue Danube is now The Local. Here's my review as a remote worker who doesn't drink coffee: Ambiance Nice and bright with large windows in the front. As noted by others, much brighter than when it was Blue Danube. Working Situation Wifi is reliable- 3 options to connect to. As seen in my photo, they know what's up! Huge power outlet extension. Do you hear the angels singing yet?? Moderate Seating Picnic table in the back. Six-two seater tables along the wall and four in the middle area. Plus more tables along the window front area. Went on a Saturday afternoon and stayed for 2 hours, it got pretty full by the time I left. Non coffee drinkers, there are plenty of options! -Tea -Chai Latte -Hot Chocolate -Spiced Cider -Smoothies -Sodas -Food: Breakfast, Salad, Sandwiches, and desserts So pleased by The Local. Can't wait to go back and check out what a weekday is like. read more

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My daughter just moved into the neighborhood, so we were checking out the surrounding neighborhood looking for some lunch on a Sunday. This spot looking inviting with a menu that would make the three of us happy. Sandwiches, salads, good coffee, ice tea and yummy looking treats if we had room after lunch. It's casual coffeehouse setting where people can meet or do computer work, have coffee and a snack. We showed up it was around 2-ish, we all settled on sandwiches. My daughter and I ordering a turkey sandwich minus the garlic aioli and pickled onions ( two items which are not FODMAP-friendly)and yet we still with lettuce and tomato and some avocado had a super delicious sandwich! My husband got himself a big salami sandwich on a roll. The owner (?) was very friendly and helpful with ordering, and I loved my tiki glass my ice tea was served in. We were able to snag a table by the window in the front, you know so we could people watch. I'd say a good find for our first venture out, and I'm sure my daughter will go back... and I'd love to come here again on my next trip over. read more

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The Local is one of my more favorite Alameda cafes, which totally makes sense since the owner is a veteran to the scene. There is a huge variety of food and drinks and they have ample seating for either hanging out or getting some work done. On Sunday afternoon, there was even live music! I'm normally a fan of just getting their juices since they're pretty fresh and tasty. Both my friend and I thought our Oat Milk Chai Lattes were a little too watery but that might be because of the milk? Not sure but I thought it was a worth a try since it's a homemade blend. My friend enjoyed the cold brew so maybe I'll try that next time! read more

Had the best egg salad sandwich ever here. A sandwich that simple can be done poorly, but attention to detail, care, and a proper palate can elevate any meal. Perfectly seasoned and ultra creamy egg salad, nicely toasted bread. Simple but tasty. Amazing customer service, I even got to request my drink in one of their awesome tiki mugs. I believe the owner even walked around greeting some regulars, and joked that I was leaving so soon when I was getting up to leave after less than an hour of working on my laptop. Most coffee shop owners would probably want people out ASAP after making a purchase, but he was genuinely interested in having customers and treated everyone with respect. All the employees were super friendly. Tons of beautiful natural light, large open space, good for working on your laptop as they've got some outlets in the wall. read more

The Local - Chai latte in a tiki mug! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

I stopped in for a lunch with a new friend as it was recommended by her! The woman at the front was so lovely and kind even behind her mask it shown through. I tried an iced latte, the lox bagel and a delicious cookie at the front got me. It was beautifully crafted, looked like a fresh flower and I had to snag it on the way out for a photo... it never made the photo because I was too excited to eat it. Definitely worth a stop if you are seeking a comfortable place for yummy coffee and eats with great customer service! read more

I was there for the first time today, but will definitely go back! New favorite. I got two drinks and the first one was on the house! I am a wheelchair user and it has my stamp of approval for it's accessibility features. Front door opening button, designated handicapped table on the entrance, helpful staff and patrons, accessible gender neutral bathroom. Good background music. Free wifi, but well-used... so I learned Zoom calls may not be a good choice for when I'm there :) read more

Otto! Please please please hire some nicer staff. Simple and kindly asked questions about types of wine you sell and a request for a receipt shouldn't ruin a cashier's day and put them on the offensive. This is the second time I've received terrible customer service out of the three I've been here. There is also a bad gnat problem. I really, truly love your vibe and want to return, but spending 12 years dedicating my hard work and energy to the restaurant industry myself, makes this type of thing unacceptable to me. I hope next time proves me wrong. read more

My go to cafe in the heart of Alameda. Friendly and attentive service. Tasty food and drinks. Look at that smoked salmon bagel and mocha. A couple of local Local fans just walked by and raved about the pastries. read more

The Local - Smoked salmon bagel and a mocha - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

The food is fresh and the coffee is good but... I've been here twice and it's full of people monopolizing tables and staring at their screens like zombies - it's a little creepy. read more

I suppose I have a "picky" espresso drink. I specify a milk, I specify decaf, and I specify a size. I've had bad luck getting my order through correctly here. It's sort of hit or miss. Today, I'm high as a kite because it wasn't decaf, and the size is wrong too. This after getting a clap back when I asked to verify my order, and never was able to. I did type my email to get a receipt this time, due to the clap back mainly, and it was marked as a large, but the cup isn't, and it's not decaf, as demonstrated by my shaking hands. It's disappointing, because I buy mochas a lot, and I was ready for a new regular place after going to the Beanery for years. But the Beanery has mobile ordering where I never get the wrong order. I'm really not a fan of the "high on caffeine" experience - it also can give me migraines - which is why I went decaf in the first place long ago. I will add that the point of sale system of the Local actually will display the order to the customer, but the order takers don't seem to realize this or care and leave that screen up long enough so one can actually look at it. Most boba tea places I've been to confirm the order before they ask the customer to pay. Maybe try that, if you don't want to continue alienating the "picky" espresso consumers. read more

The first time I went here it wasn't bad. The food are sooo over priced tho. A small sandwich for like $7 and up. My friend ordered a grilled cheese w ham and tomatoes and it came out in 15min and was very delicious. THEN I came in the day after and there were new people than from last time and I ordered the same sandwich. But it didn't come out for another HALF AN HOUR. A SMALL GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH. CAME OUT IN 30 + MIN. I only had 6 more minutes of my lunch break and was just so TRIGgEREd . The small sandwich didn't make me full at all but it sure was tasty. ADVICE: the drinks I have gotten so far tasted good and it wasn't over priced. Really recommend the chai latte. The food was sooo very expensive portions small. And long wait time. So don't get the food unless you got the money and the time read more

I only come here sparingly because it's right around the corner and I will sometimes get a hankering for the London Fog (which I do recommend). Regrettably, about half of my visits have had some kind of mistake whether it be getting improper change back or my order being over toasted, under toasted, or it's in a "for here" mug causing me to wait for a while only to realize that wasn't someone else's drink and I had been waiting around like an idiot while it's getting cold. I have no similar experiences with the neighboring cafes in the immediate area. It's just weirdly this place.... read more

I don't usually hang around Alameda, but I needed a cafe to get some work done for a few hours, and this place was perfect. It's very quiet, but they play music softly from the speakers. The staff is also very friendly! They have a wide selection of coffees, smoothies, salads, and sandwiches on their menu. The price is fair for the perfect serving size. Their restroom is also very clean. I would definitely come back again if I was in the area. They do have free WiFi and plenty of seats. They have a few outlets. Lots of people bring their laptops to work here, and there appears to be a lot of students who like to come here to study as well. read more

The Local - Hummus & salad plate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

This joint seemed promising and I drove over half an hour to come try it. I walk in and every single table is full of people on their laptops. There is no room for anyone to just sit down and have some coffee. I just walked out. My advice is to section off areas for laptops only and or limit the time to maybe 3-4 hours. I went to college with a cafe just like this and it worked well for people just wanting coffee or hanging out vs all the grad students hoarding encampments for the day. I'm sure they do well here and coffee is good, but I sort of wasted a lot of time driving, parking and showing up to nowhere to even sit, so it was a sucky experience overall. I spent a good few minutes looking around for seating and I saw a guy leaving. Another guy looks at me and says, "I'm taking that seat, I was waiting." Dang calm down, I'm not trying to steal your seat, I was just looking around for an empty one. Meh, Peet's it is. read more

The Local is one of my favorite local (hehe) coffee shops. I always choose this spot whenever I need to have a meeting as there is good wifi & plenty of seats. I really enjoy the cold brew and I've also tried their breakfast sandwich - delicious! They also have communal seating, chargers for your phones & board games. Overall a great place to hang out. I've only been here during the mornings & afternoons but I have walked by in the evening and have seen live music on some nights. I'll definitely need to go check those out. read more

Three stars because of mistakes and confusion. Unfortunately you make the best Mexican mocha around. So I given you several chances to win my morning cup coffee. You've only gotten the order correct twice. Your different sizing for different drinks shouldn't be on the customer to figure out. I have ordered a large Mocha every time. I have only gotten a medium (according to your sizing) except for twice. The first person to blast me and say why didnt you speak to the owner...because the owner was part of three of those mistakes. Now why it's not one star. It's good food, great coffee when they get it right. Great ambiance and really nice people. I'll come back when your staff figures out the sizing issues and listening skills. I wanted a coffee this morning and ordered a large Mexican mocha. (Ordered as a "16oz Mexican Mocha...what got, a 12 oz hot chocolate for $6.00...sorry, but heading to get my caffeine at another location.) I wish you well The Local. I hope things improve. read more

Very cute local coffee shop with free WiFi ! Was in here to do some work. Very spacious. Great selections of juices, coffees and pastries. This would be my go to place to chill or study :) White mint mocha was very tasty in a unique tiki mug. read more

This place is one of the best if not the best cafe in Alameda. The staff are very nice and take the time to remember my order and name every time. As far as the food goes it is very delicious whenever I come here. The place has a personality and you can come here to relax and take your time while eating. Overall, very great place and would recommend. read more

If you want good great coffee, amazing snacks, and a connection to the community this is where you need to be. The owner is amazing and a local and is invested in how his employees and customers are treated. read more

The Local - My delicious non fat white mocha. My sandwich isn't ready yet. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

Don't really leave Yelp reviews but I just had to give this place a shout! Plenty of outlets and a great place to work - a harder thing to find these days. The cheese danish, sandwich and drinks I've had were all yummy and reasonably priced. The people here are so nice. This morning the barista recommended an espresso shot with my matcha and it was so good?! We're calling it a Dirty Matcha and accepting applications for other inventive names. The caffeine high is real. Also - this is a personal preference but I'm loving their playlists. Great music for working at just the right volume for perfect background noise while still allowing conversation. Would love to make this a regular spot when I'm in town. Yay! read more

My boyfriend and I came by today and I got the Sweetheart drink while he got Sugar and Spice. We both loved our drinks! I thought it was just the right amount of sweet. The lady at the register was nice too! We're definitely going to be back whenever we visit Alameda :) read more

This place has an amazing atmosphere, delicious food, and the coffee is the best in the area! My wife and I come here on a regular basis to relax or do work/school. Awesome place and awesome owner/staff. Highly recommend checking out their live music the singer Ashley Rae has the voice like no other and the Local really makes the whole experience come together. read more

The Local - Chicken Cobb Salad - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alameda, California

Ambiance is great. Many are reading or studying and some have computers but down home feel. Someone was playing music on this past Sunday afternoon which was nice read more

Good and relaxing ambience. Good service. Food and coffee could be better. They have wine and beer on the menu too. read more

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The best Mexican hot chocolate. I'm fussy about hot chocolate. Very fussy. This is the first time that I've ever, ever had anything comparable to that which I would prepare in my own kitchen. Better, perhaps. I covet their recipe. Great baked goods: a pecan swirl and a spice cookie complemented our hot drinks on a cold evening. The intense, fresh ginger-spice flavor of the cookie was divine. Nice bluegrass was being played to an appreciative audience the evening we were in - The Local was a welcome serendipitous Alameda find, as was the amazing Art Deco interior of the Alameda Theater. read more

Place is cute and love that it has a local vibe. Coffee and other beverage selection is good. Food options seem legit. I ordered an iced chai with the lox spread on a bagel. Chai was tasty, a little on the watery side but that's okay. The bagel however was ROCK HARD. I could barely chew it let alone even bite down. I'd say about 75% of the bagel was inedible so had to toss it. Probably was a day or two old bagel :/ read more